Community Corner

Happy Trails to You

Wesleyan Geographic Information Systems students work with Haddam Land Trust to create new hiking trail on Washburn Hill Preserve.

 

The Haddam Land Trust (HLT) invites you to explore their newest hiking trail on the Washburn Hill Preserve in Higganum. The trail design originated through a class project of Wesleyan Geographic Information Systems students during the spring semester of 2010. The four Wesleyan students worked with the HLT Board by using GIS and field investigations to recommend a design for a sustainable trail on the Washburn Hill property.

In early 2011, (HK) student Sam Parker approached the HLT to request permission to build a trail for his Eagle Scout project. The HLT Board enthusiastically accepted Sam’s offer to complete the Washburn Hill trail and were not disappointed. Sam reviewed the Wesleyan students’ trail design and walked the property with HLT board members and a volunteer from The Connecticut Forest and Park Association’s (CFPA) Trails Committee who provided trail design expertise.

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To develop the trail, between March 2011and November 2011, Sam directed 11 scouts, 2 organized work parties, and a couple other outings at which other high school volunteers helped. In addition, Sam recruited Mr. Lloyd Pearson who provided survey services so to ensure assure that the trail was in fact on the HLT property.

Sam and his crew added a kiosk at the trail head, signage (see photo) and a foot bridge (see photo) making the trail truly enjoyable. The HLT encourages folks to take advantage of this approximately 1 mile loop trail to get acquainted with nature, enjoy the quiet, and observe some of the local wildlife. Please note that the HLT trails are for foot travel only and dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

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The Washburn Hill Preserve is located off of Route 81 just north of . Parking is available in the cul-de-sac near the kiosk. Check Haddam Land Trust website for directions.

The HLT welcomes similar collaborations with schools, scouts, and other groups. Please contact the land trust at hlt_webmaster@hltrust.org for additional information.


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